Architecture Monuments of the Sultans The architecture and monuments developed under the Sultans of Delhi (1206–1526 AD) represent a unique synthesis of traditions, known as Indo-Islamic architecture or the Imperial Style. This period is commonly divided into phases corresponding to the ruling dynasties.
I. General Features of Sultanate Architecture
- Synthesis of Cultures: The monuments reflect an assimilation of traditions brought by the Turks (from Central and West Asia, and Persia) with indigenous Indian elements.
- Key Architectural Innovations (Turkish Elements):
- The arch and dome were introduced extensively, replacing the traditional flat-roofed structures of Indian architecture.
- They permitted the construction of large, clear halls suitable for assemblies and prayers, as they did away with the need for many pillars to support the roof.
- The use of good quality mortar (cement) was necessitated for holding stones together in arched and domed structures.
- The Turks commonly used red sandstone, often highlighting features with yellow sandstone or marble.
- Decorative Styles:
- New Turkish styles focused on geometrical and floral designs, combined with verses from the Quran, often in an artistic combination called ‘arbesque’.
- Human and animal representations were generally considered un-Islamic and avoided.
- Hindu motifs were frequently incorporated, such as the bell, swastika, lotus, and water-pots.
II. The First Phase (c. 1206–1320 A.D.)
This phase covers the Mamluk (Slave) and Khalji dynasties.
1. Mamluk or Slave Dynasty (c. 1206–1290 AD)
The architectural style during this period is known as the Mameluke style. Early constructions involved converting or remodeling existing Hindu structures for use as houses and mosques.
| Monument | Ruler(s) | Key Features and Developments |
|---|---|---|
| Qutub Minar | Planned/begun by Aibak; completed by Iltutmish; restored/added to by Firuz Shah Tughlaq. | Symbolized the victory of the Turkish forces. Tapering cylindrical shape with projecting balconies separated by carved inscriptions from the Quran. Stands at 72.5 meters high, making it the tallest minaret built of bricks. |
| Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque | Qutb-ud-din Aibak. | The first mosque built in Delhi after the Islamic conquest. Constructed using materials gathered from the destruction of 27 Hindu and Jain temples. |
| Tomb of Iltutmish | Iltutmish (c. 1235 CE). | Reflects experimentation, notably using the Squinch Arch (rounding off the upper angles of a square room to support a dome). The interior features intricate carving and Hindu motifs like the bell-and-chain and lotus. |
| Tomb of Balban | Balban. | Featured the first appearance of the True Arch in India. |
| Arhai-din-ka Jhopra | Aibak. | Located in Ajmer, this structure was converted from an existing monastery/temple. |
2. Khalji Dynasty (c. 1290–1320 A.D.)
This era introduced the Seljuq architectural style and promoted the Arcuate style using true arches and domes.
| Monument | Ruler(s) | Key Features and Developments |
|---|---|---|
| Alai Darwaza | Alauddin Khalji (1305 CE). | Southern entrance to the Qutab Mosque. Contained the first dome built on correct scientific lines. Features pointed horseshoe arches. Utilized red sandstone and inlaid white marble decoration. |
| Siri Fort/Capital | Alauddin Khalji. | Established as the second city of Delhi. |
III. The Second Phase (c. 1320–1414 A.D.)
This phase is defined by the Tughlaq Dynasty. The Indo-Islamic style emerged fully independent. Architectural focus shifted toward strength and austerity, often due to economic constraints.
- Materials and Style: Costly red sandstone was often replaced by cheaper, more readily available grey stones (stone rubble). This led to minimal ornamentation, though Hindu motifs like the water pot and lotus were used.
- Structural Innovations:
- Introduction of the “batter” technique, characterized by sloping walls, to provide structural strength and enhance height/loftiness.
- Deliberate efforts were made to combine the principles of the arch, lintel, and beam.
- The emergence of a pointed or ‘Tartar’ shaped dome with a visible neck.
| Monument | Ruler(s) | Key Features and Developments |
|---|---|---|
| Tughlaqabad Fort | Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq (1321 AD). | The third city of Delhi, combining a city, fort, and palace. |
| Tomb of Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq | Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq. | Set upon a high platform for increased height. Described as a ‘warrior’s tomb’ because of its fortress-like appearance. Archway combines arch and beam principles. |
| Firuzabad | Firuz Shah Tughlaq. | The fifth city of Delhi, including the palace Kushk-i-Firuz and the citadel Kotla Firuz Shah. |
| Tomb of Khan-i-Jahan Tilangani | Built during the reign of Firuz Shah Tughlaq. | Represented a new style of tomb architecture: octagonal in shape instead of square. Also featured the early use of the chhajja (eaves board). |
IV. The Third Phase (c. 1451–1526 A.D.)
This period, covering the Lodi Dynasty, primarily focused on the construction of tombs.
- Aesthetic Features: Buildings were placed on a high platform to create a more imposing look and better skyline. Balconies, kiosks, and eaves derived from Rajasthani and Gujarati styles were used. Gardens were often established around the tombs, exemplified by the Lodi Gardens in Delhi.
- Key Structural Innovation:
- Double Dome Architecture: Introduced in the Tomb of Sikander Lodi. This consisted of an inner and outer shell of masonry with space between them, raising the external height of the dome while keeping the inner ceiling proportionate. This principle was later crucial in constructing major Mughal domes.
V. Provincial Architectural Styles
During the later Sultanate period, as provinces became independent, distinct regional styles emerged, fusing Islamic design with local craftsmanship.
- Jaunpur (Sharqi Style): Avoided minarets (similar to Pathan style). Notable features include battered bastions, lofty propylons on mosque facades, and bold inscriptions painted on screens. Example: Atala Mosque, Jami Masjid.
- Gujarat Style: Excellent fusion of Hindu and Muslim styles, notably influenced by local Jain architecture. Features include slender turrets and ornate brackets. Example: Jami Masjid at Ahmedabad.
- Bengal Style: Distinguished by the use of bricks and black marble, and the incorporation of sloping ‘Bangla roofs’ (a local temple feature). Example: Adina Masjid constructed by Sikandar Shah at Pandua.
- Malwa (Mandu Style): Characterized by massiveness, often achieved by lofty plinths. Used extensive colored and glazed tiles. Examples: Jama Masjid, Hindola Mahal, and the Jahaz Mahal.